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TIER 1 ORTHOPEDIC AND NEUROSURGICAL INSTITUTE

Orthopedics, Sports Medicine, and Neurosurgery

If you have trouble washing your hair or throwing a ball because of shoulder pain, you might have an underlying condition that needs expert attention. At Tier 1 Orthopedic and Neurosurgical Institute, with five offices throughout Cookeville and Crossville, Tennessee, the skilled orthopedic specialists offer state-of-the-art, in-office diagnostic testing to identify the cause of your pain. The team offers conservative and surgical treatments to restore your shoulder’s mobility and reduce your risk for additional pain. Call the Tier 1 Orthopedic and Neurosurgical Institute office nearest you to schedule an appointment or use the online tool today.

SHOULDER PAIN Q & A

What causes shoulder pain?

The complexity of your shoulder joint makes it susceptible to injuries, especially if you play sports or work in a job that requires repetitive movements. You might also be at risk for chronic shoulder pain because of age-related changes or degenerative diseases like arthritis that break down the structures in your shoulder joint. In addition to arthritis, the Tier 1 Orthopedic and Neurosurgical Institute team can diagnose and treat a variety of issues that cause chronic shoulder pain, including:

  • Instability
  • Fractures
  • Dislocation
  • Bursitis
  • Tendinitis
  • Rotator cuff tears

You should seek a diagnostic evaluation for shoulder pain if you’re not finding relief with over-the-counter medications and rest. The earlier you begin treating your shoulder condition, the faster you can get back to a physically active life.

What happens during a diagnostic evaluation for shoulder pain?

During your diagnostic evaluation for shoulder pain, the team at Tier 1 Orthopedic and Neurosurgical Institute spends time reviewing your medical history, your lifestyle, and your usual activities. They also perform a physical exam to evaluate the range of motion you have in your shoulder joint. If a physical doesn’t provide enough information to determine the cause of your shoulder pain, the orthopedic specialists may request X-rays or other diagnostic imaging tests to get a better look at the structures in your shoulder. Once your tests are complete, your physician discusses the available options for treatment. They customize a treatment plan to alleviate your pain and restore the range of motion you have in your shoulder.

What treatments are available for shoulder pain?

Initially, you might benefit from an extended period of rest or immobilizing the shoulder to help it heal. Over-the-counter or prescription medications can reduce inflammation and ease pain. Medications can also help you participate in on-site physical therapy services to restore your shoulder function.  Shoulder injections might also be beneficial if oral medications aren’t working. The team at Tier 1 Orthopedic and Neurosurgical Institute can inject an anesthetic and anti-inflammatory medication into your shoulder joint to treat pain. They also offer injections of platelet-rich plasma (PRP), a substance that triggers your body to heal itself. If conservative treatments aren’t enough to treat your shoulder pain, you might be a candidate for surgery. The team offers minimally invasive arthroscopic and robotic surgeries to remove excess scar tissue and repair soft tissue injuries like rotator cuff tears. Minimally invasive surgery requires only small incisions to access your shoulder joint. This type of procedure is less traumatic to your body. You can expect to heal faster and with fewer complications. To schedule a diagnostic evaluation for shoulder pain, call the Tier 1 Orthopedic and Neurosurgical Institute office nearest you or request a consultation online today.